An Iterative and Cost-Based Approach for Optimal SFCL Allocation in Fault Level-Constrained Meshed Networks

Abstract

In this article, an allocation method for superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) to reduce the exceeded short circuit current within the breaking capacity of the circuit breakers (CBs) is proposed. A cost-based allocation method is advised because of the high cost of SFCL depending on its type. In this article, the multiple parameters such as number, impedance size and type of the SFCLs in meshed networks are determined by defining a cost function for SFCL and using a new hybrid genetic algorithm and sensitivity analysis (HGASA) optimization. The proposed method is based on gradual (step by step) adding the multiple SFCLs in various points of the network during the iterative-based process to optimal SFCL allocation with the least economic costs in fault level-constrained meshed networks. A sensitivity index based on the average decrease of fault current is proposed to reduce the search space and to improve the efficiency of the algorithm. Also, since the different types of SFCLs have different behavior in fault current mitigation, they are analyzed and considered in this article. IEEE 30-bus test system is chosen to evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.